There is a popular adage that there are no permanent friends or enemies in politics. This has once again proved in the case of former ministers Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Avanthi Srinivasa Rao, who displayed an unusual bonhomie, after being bitter enemies for over five years.
Ganta is considered to be a political mentor of Avanti since the days of Praja Rajyam Party.
But they turned rivals during the last assembly elections when they contested against each other from the Bhimili constituency—Ganta representing the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Avanthi contesting on a YSRCP ticket.
The contest was marked by intense political rivalry and sharp personal attacks.
Avanthi had, at the time, made controversial remarks targeting Ganta, including allegations about his political opportunism and frequent shifting of constituencies. Ganta eventually emerged victorious in the high-profile contest.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Avanthi—who has since distanced himself from active politics after quitting the YSRCP—was seen attending Ganta Srinivasa Rao’s 40th wedding anniversary celebrations held at a private resort.
Photographs of Ganta and Avanthi sharing a cordial moment have gone viral on social media.
While some netizens expressed surprise over the reunion of former rivals, others commented that political differences need not affect personal relationships.
Speculation continues over Avanthi’s political future, with past reports suggesting a possible entry into the Jana Sena Party or the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), or even a return to the TDP. However, no official announcement has been made so far.
The association between Ganta and Avanthi dates back several years, beginning as business partners before evolving into a political partnership.
Both leaders initially entered politics through the TDP and later joined the Praja Rajyam Party founded by actor Chiranjeevi in 2009, where both won as MLAs. They subsequently returned to the TDP ahead of the 2014 elections.
Avanthi later joined the YSRCP before the 2019 elections, won from Bhimili, and served as Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Youth Affairs in the Jagan cabinet before resigning during the 2022 cabinet reshuffle.
